In the vaccine ad, what role does the professional athlete play?

• A. Narrator with technical data
• B. Endorser to create social proof
• C. Person offering financial incentive
• D. Opponent voicing skepticism

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that a professional athlete in this ad acts as an endorsement to create social proof. By showing a familiar, admired figure publicly supporting vaccination, the ad signals that getting vaccinated is accepted and endorsed by someone the audience is likely to respect or look up to. This taps into trust and admiration to persuade indirectly, making the behavior seem normal and desirable without having to dive into scientific data.

This role isn’t about delivering technical information, which would require a narrator presenting facts. It’s also not about offering money or incentives, nor about presenting a skeptical opponent. The athlete’s presence is about credibility and appeal, using social influence to persuade.